Why he's here Justified his wild-card selection with victory in the European Masters earlier this month. Being a winner of seven out eight points in his Walker Cup career must have helped.

Distinguishing feature Looks like an Ant and Dec hybrid. Being based in America, he will evince the relaxed air of a man totally at ease with his surroundings.

Favourite shot Donald likes to play it short and accurate, so do not expect any fireworks. His nickname on the US Tour is Plod. "He's a very boring player, which is a compliment in golf," says Charles Howell III. And to think Donald's hero is Seve.

Boiling point He paints. He's got the patience to sit and cover a canvas in oils; he is not going to throw a fit when a putt comes up three feet short.

What he will say "No I didn't design any of Poulter's bloody awful trousers, I'm a major in art for god's sake."

Who's the caddie? His older brother Christian. "It's nice to have family or someone close to you on the road," says Luke, who nevertheless makes a point of staying in separate accommodation wherever they travel, else they end up brawling across the continent like the last English siblings who tried to crack America, Liam and Noel Gallagher.

Peter Cowen's technical verdict "He's technically very sound and his swing does not do anything irregular. Every part is solid and that's how he's been doing it since he was a kid. He's a very efficient player and very straight. I think that's why Langer chose him."

Off course

Golf punk or monk An artist and all-round renaissance man. In other words, what punks become when they grow up.

Significant other Got together with his long-time girlfriend Diane while at college. She is not fazed by his new-found celebrity. "To me he's just this frat-boy golfer I met in a bar" she says of the successful millionaire sportsman.

Don't mention The fact his former Walker Cup mentor Peter McEvoy says the next British golfer to win a major will be, "Luke, ahead of Monty, Westwood and Clarke". No pressure then.

Hobnobs with Celebrity pals are far too ersatz for a fellow who keeps himself to himself.

Where his wedge goes On an apartment near Lake Michigan which he intends to dress with fine paintings. Yes, he is irritatingly cool.

Match-play partner should be

Peter Paul Rubens - Ace painter Keen artist Donald would relish the chance to swap strokes with the Flemish master and his expertise at painting vast, fleshy people could be invaluable if a group portrait of Europe's team is needed.